Tray feeders are versatile hive-top feeding devices available in round or square designs with fluid capacities ranging from 4 pints (0.5 gallons) to 3.5 gallons. Depending on their size, they are either placed over the feed hole within a spacer or constructed to match the hive's external dimensions, sitting directly beneath the roof like an additional super.
Core Takeaway: These feeders are defined by their ability to hold significant volume while ensuring bee safety. They utilize a controlled access route that allows the colony to feed freely without the risk of drowning in the syrup.
Capacity and Physical Design
Volume Ranges
Tray feeders offer a wide range of storage options to suit different feeding schedules. Capacities start at 4 pints (1/2 gallon) for smaller needs and extend up to 3.5 gallons for heavy feeding.
Shape Varieties
These units are manufactured in both round and square configurations. This variety allows beekeepers to select a shape that best fits their specific hive setup or personal preference.
Material Construction
Larger tray feeders are frequently constructed from wood. This robust material choice supports the weight of the syrup and integrates aesthetically and structurally with wooden hive bodies.
Installation and Placement
Mounting Smaller Versions
Smaller tray feeders are designed to sit directly over the hive's feed hole. Because they sit on top of the frames, they often require an eke or an empty super placed around them to provide the necessary vertical clearance under the roof.
Integrated Hive-Top Feeders
Larger versions are built to match the exact dimensions of the hive. These units act as an extension of the hive body, placed on top like an extra super, with the hive roof sitting directly on top of the feeder itself.
Safety and Functionality
Controlled Access
The critical feature of a tray feeder is its controlled access route. This design element dictates how bees enter the feeder to reach the syrup.
Preventing Drowning
By restricting access to specific areas, the feeder prevents bees from becoming submerged. This ensures they can feed on the syrup efficiently without the risk of drowning, which is a common issue with open-container feeding.
Understanding the Configuration Trade-offs
Equipment Requirements
While efficient, these feeders may require additional equipment. Smaller versions generally cannot fit under a standard flat roof without adding a spacer (eke) or an empty super to create room.
Structural Integration
Large feeders simplify the stack by matching the hive dimensions, but they become a semi-permanent part of the hive structure during feeding. You must remove the roof to access them, but you do not need to disturb the brood nest.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
Select the feeder size that aligns with your management style and existing equipment.
- If your primary focus is rapid, bulk feeding: Choose the 3.5-gallon wooden feeder that matches your hive dimensions for maximum volume without needing refills.
- If your primary focus is smaller, supplemental feeding: Choose the 4-pint round or square version, ensuring you have an eke or empty super available to house it.
The right tray feeder balances the volume of syrup your colony needs with the specific physical configuration of your hive stack.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Smaller Tray Feeders | Large Hive-Top Feeders |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity Range | 4 Pints (0.5 Gallons) | Up to 3.5 Gallons |
| Common Shapes | Round or Square | Rectangular (Hive Dimensions) |
| Primary Material | Plastic or Wood | Robust Wood |
| Placement | Over hive feed hole | Sits like an additional super |
| Requirement | Needs eke or empty super | Directly matches hive footprint |
| Bee Safety | Controlled access route | Controlled access route |
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